Province House

Historic site · Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Province House

Neoclassical sandstone building from 1847, seat of Prince Edward Island’s legislature, where in 1864 the conference that led to the creation of Canada met.

Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.

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About Province House

Province House was built between 1843 and 1847 to house the government and legislative assembly of the colony of Prince Edward Island, and it remains the seat of the provincial parliament. The sandstone, neoclassical building with columns on its façade stands in downtown Charlottetown, beside the Confederation Centre of the Arts.

In September 1864, delegates from the British North American colonies met there to discuss union. The Charlottetown conference paved the way for the creation of Canada in 1867, which is why the building is called the birthplace of Confederation. The room where the delegates met, the Confederation Chamber, is the highlight of the visit.

The building is a National Historic Site, managed by Parks Canada in agreement with the province, and underwent extensive conservation work. Exhibits cover the architecture, the conference and the assembly’s history, including the island’s Indigenous, Black and Acadian communities. Check visiting days and the current timetable.

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Before you go

Practical information

Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.

How much time to set aside

One hour.

Best time

June to September, with more visiting days; on days when the legislature is in session some parts may have restricted access.

How to get there

On Richmond Street, in downtown Charlottetown, a few minutes’ walk from the harbour.

Tip

Combine with the Confederation Centre of the Arts, across the square, to complete the Confederation story.

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Get your questions answered

Frequently asked questions about Province House

What happened at Province House in 1864?

The Charlottetown Conference, which brought together delegates from the British North American colonies and paved the way for the creation of Canada in 1867.

Is Province House still the island's parliament?

Yes, it remains the seat of Prince Edward Island's legislative assembly.

How long does a visit to Province House take?

About an hour.

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